Colonoscopy is a word that incites dread in many people. This is because there are some common misconceptions about colonoscopy procedures that give it a bad reputation. However, the procedure is very important. It is used to look for abnormalities in the colon and it is the primary method of testing for colorectal cancer.

What is a Colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy involves sending a narrow, flexible tube into the lower bowels. The tube has a camera on the end and is used to look for any abnormalities. It can also be used to remove small pieces of tissue to be sent to a lab for analysis. This can be used to diagnose cancer, or diseased tissue.

Who Needs a Colonoscopy?

Once you reach age 50, you should begin getting regular colonoscopies. At this age, the risk of developing polyps and colon cancer increases. Routine colonoscopies allow your doctor to diagnose abnormalities quickly and begin treatment.

However, if you have a family history of bowel cancer, you should begin getting colonoscopies at an earlier age. Furthermore, if you have been diagnoses with other conditions that affect the digestive tract, such as colorectal polyps, IBD, or IBS, you should get colonoscopies sooner. Routine colonoscopies occur once a year, unless you are at a higher risk or have symptoms that are concerning.

Your First Colonoscopy

Currently, healthy adults with no family history of bowel disease can wait until age 50 for their first colonoscopy. However, your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy sooner if you have been diagnosed with IBA, ulcerative colitis, or other bowel conditions.

If you have a family history of cancer, the American Cancer Association recommends starting at age 45. However, if you are at a higher risk or have a previous diagnosis, you should start sooner. Most doctors recommend having a colonoscopy at 35 if either of your parents had colorectal cancer.

[Related: Blood in Stool]

Risk of Colorectal Cancer

Certain conditions, or a family history, can put you at a higher risk of colorectal cancer. If any of the following factors apply to you, you should consider starting earlier and getting more frequent colonoscopies.  

• Family history of colorectal cancer or cancerous polyps

• Previous diagnosis of Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, IBS, etc.

• You have been exposed to radiation around your abdomen or pelvic region (from cancer treatment or another radiation source)

• You have had surgery to remove a portion of the bowel

• Your family carries a gene such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FDA) or Lynch Syndrome that increases your risk of bowel cancers

Polyp Removal

A polyp is a tiny growth of excess tissue in the colon. The majority of harmless and easily removed, but adenomas are more likely to become cancerous and should be removed. Removing a polyp is call polypectomy. It can be done during your colonoscopy. After you have had a polyp removed, it is recommended to have a colonoscopy withing 5 years. If your risk of adenomas is high, you may need a colonoscopy in 2 years.

Diverticulosis and Ulcerative Colitis

It is recommended to have a colonoscopy every 5-8 years if you have diverticulosis. If your symptoms are severe, your doctor may recommend them more often.

If you have ulcerative colitis, you should have a colonoscopy every 2-5 years.  However, if you follow a specialized diet for ulcerative colitis, you may not need them as often.

50, 60, and Older

Typically, you need a colonoscopy at least once every 10 years after age 50. However, if your risk of cancer increases, you may need a colonoscopy ever 5 years after age 60.

Once you reach age 75 or 80, your doctor may recommend stopping colonoscopies. As you get older, the risk of complications can outweigh the benefits of the procedure.

Risks and Side Effects

While colonoscopies are considered safe and noninvasive, there are still some risks. Your doctor will discuss these with you along with the benefits of having the procedure done.  Common risks and side effects include:

• Internal bleeding from polyp removal

• Intense abdominal pain

• Tear, perforation, or injury to the rectum or colon (although it is extremely rare)

• Negative reaction to anesthesia

• Blood infection

• Emergency surgery to repair damaged tissue

• Heart failure in reaction to substances used

• Death (also extremely rare)

If you are at a high risk for complications, your doctor may suggest a virtual colonoscopy. This involves taking 3D images of the colon and examining them on a computer.

Colonoscopy in Maryland

Is it time for you to have a colonoscopy? Whether it is the first, or just routine colonoscopy, it is important to your health. Contact Bowie Internal Medicine today to schedule an appointment with our friendly, experienced physicians.